Best British TV Programmes to Watch in 2024

British television programmes have been entertaining audiences for decades with their unique blend of humor, drama, and wit. From classic sitcoms like Fawlty Towers to modern-day dramas like Peaky Blinders, British TV shows have captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. In this article, we will be discussing the best British TV programmes that you should add to your watchlist.

When it comes to choosing the best British TV programmes, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to keep in mind is the genre of the show. British TV has a wide range of genres, including comedy, drama, crime, and period pieces. The second factor to consider is the quality of the writing and acting. British TV is known for its exceptional writing and talented actors who bring their characters to life. Finally, it’s essential to consider the popularity and critical acclaim of the show.

If you’re looking to add some British TV programmes to your watchlist, there are a few critical things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the genre that interests you the most. Secondly, look for shows with high-quality writing and acting. Finally, consider the popularity and critical acclaim of the show. By following these guidelines, you’re sure to find some fantastic British TV programmes to watch.

We’ve spent countless hours researching and watching British TV programmes to identify the ones that are worth your time. In the following sections, we’ll be discussing the best British TV programmes that you should add to your watchlist.

Best British TV Programmes

We’ve scoured the depths of British television to bring you the very best programmes that the UK has to offer. From gripping crime dramas to heartwarming comedies, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned Anglophile or a newcomer to British TV, our list has something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most beloved shows to ever come out of the UK.

Last of the Summer Wine: The Inside Story of the World’s Longest-Running Comedy Programme

If you’re a fan of the BBC comedy series “Last of the Summer Wine,” this book is a must-read for you.

Pros

• Provides an inside look into the world’s longest-running comedy programme.
• Packed with interesting facts, stories, and insights.
• Well-researched and written in an engaging manner.

Cons

• Some disappointing bits of information.
• May not be as enjoyable for those who are not fans of the show.
• Some readers may find the book to be too detailed.

This book is a fascinating read for anyone who loves “Last of the Summer Wine.” It provides an inside look into the making of the show and the people behind it. The book is packed with interesting facts, stories, and insights that will keep you engaged from beginning to end.

One of the pros of this book is that it is well-researched and written in an engaging manner. The author, Andrew Vine, has done an excellent job of bringing the show’s history to life. He provides a detailed account of how the show was created and how it evolved over the years.

Another pro of this book is that it is packed with interesting facts, stories, and insights. You’ll learn about the show’s cast, crew, and writers, and you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the show was made.

However, there are also some cons to this book. Some readers may find the book to be too detailed. While the level of detail is perfect for die-hard fans of the show, others may find it overwhelming. Additionally, some readers may find the book to be disappointing in parts.

In conclusion, if you’re a fan of “Last of the Summer Wine,” this book is a must-read. It provides an inside look into the world’s longest-running comedy programme and is packed with interesting facts, stories, and insights. While there are some cons to the book, overall, it is an excellent read that is well worth your time.

The Watch: Season One (DVD)

If you’re a fan of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series, you might want to give The Watch a try. It’s a fun and quirky show that’s not entirely faithful to the books, but still manages to capture their spirit.

Pros

• The show is full of interesting and likable characters, each with their own quirks and flaws.
• The world-building is top-notch, with a rich and detailed setting that’s full of surprises.
• The show is a lot of fun to watch, with plenty of humor and action to keep you entertained.

Cons

• The show takes a lot of liberties with the source material, which might be off-putting to some fans of the books.
• Some of the accents and dialogue can be hard to understand, especially if you’re not familiar with British slang.
• The show was cancelled after just one season, so don’t expect a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Overall, we think The Watch is a fun and enjoyable show that’s worth checking out if you’re a fan of Terry Pratchett or British TV in general. Just don’t expect it to be a faithful adaptation of the books, and be prepared for some quirky and offbeat storytelling.

TV Geek: The Den of Geek Guide for the Netflix Generation

If you are a big fan of British TV programmes, then you should definitely consider purchasing TV Geek: The Den of Geek Guide for the Netflix Generation. This book is a fun and informative read that will provide you with all the information you need about your favourite shows.

Pros

• Provides interesting and informative facts about British TV programmes
• Easy to read and well-organized
• Provides a comprehensive guide to British TV programmes

Cons

• Some sections may not be relevant to all readers
• May not provide in-depth analysis of every show
• Kindle version may not be as visually appealing as the print version

TV Geek: The Den of Geek Guide for the Netflix Generation is a must-have for anyone who loves British TV programmes. The book is well-organized and easy to read, making it a great resource for both casual viewers and die-hard fans.

The book is packed with interesting and informative facts about British TV programmes, providing readers with a comprehensive guide to the shows they love. Whether you are a fan of classic shows like Doctor Who and Fawlty Towers, or newer programmes like Black Mirror and Sherlock, TV Geek has got you covered.

While some sections of the book may not be relevant to all readers, the overall scope of the book is impressive. It provides a great overview of British TV programmes, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to learn more about these shows.

One potential downside of the book is that it may not provide in-depth analysis of every show. However, the book’s strength lies in its ability to provide readers with interesting and informative facts about the shows they love.

Overall, TV Geek: The Den of Geek Guide for the Netflix Generation is a great resource for anyone who loves British TV programmes. Whether you are a casual viewer or a die-hard fan, this book is sure to provide you with hours of entertainment and information. So, go ahead and add it to your collection today!

Call the Midwife: Season Eight

If you’re a fan of historical drama with a touch of comedy, then Call the Midwife: Season Eight is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• The show continues to explore complex medical and personal stories on the midwifery and district nursing rounds, making it both engaging and educational.
• The introduction of new medical technologies and social changes in the 1960s provides an interesting historical perspective.
• The characters are well-written and acted, making it easy to get attached to them and their stories.

Cons

• The show can be emotionally intense at times, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The lack of French subtitles may be disappointing for French-speaking viewers.
• The DVD itself may not be of the highest quality, according to some reviews.

In this season, the nuns and nurses continue to face a variety of challenging issues, including cleft palate, sickle cell, and illegal abortion. For one member of the team, romance could be on the horizon. The show is both entertaining and educational, providing a glimpse into the history of midwifery and nursing in Britain.

The characters are well-written and acted, with Vanessa Redgrave providing a strong and steady presence as the narrator. The show can be emotionally intense at times, but it is always engaging and thought-provoking.

Overall, if you’re a fan of historical drama or are interested in the history of midwifery and nursing, then Call the Midwife: Season Eight is definitely worth checking out.

One Foot in the Grave: Season 4

If you’re a fan of British comedy and enjoy a good laugh, then One Foot in the Grave: Season 4 is a must-watch.

Pros

• The humor is clever and witty, making it a joy to watch.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to get invested in the story.
• The DVD set includes a Christmas special that is a fan favorite.

Cons

• The show can be a bit slow-paced at times, which may not be for everyone.
• The humor can be a bit dark, which may not be suitable for all audiences.
• The DVD set may not include as many special features as some fans would like.

One Foot in the Grave: Season 4 follows the misadventures of Victor Meldrew, a man who seems to be cursed with bad luck. Despite his setbacks, he refuses to accept defeat and instead faces each new challenge with a mixture of humor and frustration.

The show’s clever writing and witty humor make it a joy to watch. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to get invested in the story. Even the supporting characters are given enough depth to make them interesting and unique.

However, the show can be a bit slow-paced at times, which may not be for everyone. Additionally, the humor can be a bit dark, which may not be suitable for all audiences. Finally, the DVD set may not include as many special features as some fans would like.

Despite these minor flaws, One Foot in the Grave: Season 4 is a fan favorite that is sure to provide plenty of laughs. Highly recommended for fans of British comedy.

Absolutely Fabulous

If you’re looking for a hilarious British TV show with a touch of absurdity, then Absolutely Fabulous is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The show’s witty humor is sure to keep you entertained throughout each episode.
• The characters are well-developed and their outrageous antics will leave you laughing out loud.
• The show’s fashion and pop culture references are a fun blast from the past.

Cons

• The show’s humor may not be for everyone, as it can be quite crude and irreverent at times.
• Some of the jokes and references may be outdated, as the show was first released in the early 90s.
• The show’s content advisory for substance use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content may not be suitable for all viewers.

If you’re a fan of British comedy, then Absolutely Fabulous is a must-watch. The show follows the lives of two best friends, Edina and Patsy, as they navigate the ups and downs of their glamorous and often chaotic lives. From their fashion faux pas to their wild partying, the show is a hilarious and over-the-top portrayal of the fashion and entertainment industry.

One of the best things about Absolutely Fabulous is its clever and witty humor. The show’s writers have a knack for creating hilarious situations and one-liners that will keep you laughing from beginning to end. Additionally, the characters are well-developed and their outrageous personalities make for some truly memorable moments.

However, the show’s humor may not be for everyone. Some viewers may find the show’s crude and irreverent humor to be off-putting. Additionally, some of the jokes and references may be outdated, as the show was first released in the early 90s. Finally, the show’s content advisory for substance use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content may not be suitable for all viewers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and outrageous British TV show, then Absolutely Fabulous is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for some crude humor and wild antics along the way.

Absolutely Fabulous

If you’re looking for a hilarious British TV show with iconic characters and outrageous storylines, Absolutely Fabulous is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The dynamic between the two main characters, Edina and Patsy, is absolutely hilarious and will have you laughing out loud.
• The show is filled with witty and sarcastic humor that is quintessentially British, making it a must-watch for fans of British comedy.
• The fashion and style in the show are over-the-top and fabulous, making it a great watch for any fashion lover.

Cons

• Some of the humor in the show can be quite crude and may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The show can be a bit chaotic and hard to follow at times, so it’s not the best choice for someone looking for a straightforward storyline.
• The characters can be quite unlikeable at times, which may turn off some viewers.

If you’re looking for a show that will have you laughing out loud and keep you entertained for hours, Absolutely Fabulous is definitely worth checking out. With its iconic characters, witty humor, and over-the-top fashion, it’s a true gem of British television. However, it’s important to note that the show’s humor can be quite crude at times and the storyline can be a bit chaotic, so it may not be the best choice for everyone. Overall, we highly recommend giving Absolutely Fabulous a watch if you’re a fan of British comedy.

A Bit of Fry and Laurie

If you’re a fan of British comedy, then A Bit of Fry and Laurie is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• Hilarious skits that will leave you in stitches
• Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie have amazing chemistry on screen
• The show is cleverly written and well-produced

Cons

• Some of the jokes may not land with everyone
• The show’s humor may be too dry for some viewers
• There are no subtitles available for non-English speaking viewers

We highly recommend A Bit of Fry and Laurie for anyone who enjoys witty and intelligent comedy. The skits are well-crafted and will have you laughing out loud. Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie are a dynamic duo, and their on-screen chemistry is palpable.

One of the standout aspects of the show is the clever writing. The skits are well thought out and the jokes are expertly crafted. The show is also well-produced, with high-quality production values that make it a pleasure to watch.

That being said, some viewers may find the humor too dry or not to their taste. Additionally, there are no subtitles available for non-English speaking viewers, which may be a drawback for some.

Overall, if you’re a fan of British comedy, A Bit of Fry and Laurie is definitely a must-watch.

The Industrial Revolution

If you’re a history buff looking for a comprehensive documentary on the Industrial Revolution, this could be the one for you.

Pros

• The documentary provides an in-depth look at the Industrial Revolution, covering various aspects such as its origins, impact on society, and technological advancements.
• The narration by Jeremy Black is clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along and understand the content.
• The use of primary sources such as letters and journals from the time period adds a personal touch and helps to bring the history to life.

Cons

• The documentary can be quite dry at times, with a lot of information to take in, which may not be suitable for those who prefer a more fast-paced style of storytelling.
• The focus is primarily on the British Industrial Revolution, with less attention given to its impact on other countries or the global economy.
• The lack of visual aids or reconstructions may make it difficult for some viewers to fully grasp the technological advancements and innovations of the time.

Overall, if you’re interested in learning more about the Industrial Revolution and its impact on society, The Industrial Revolution documentary is a solid choice. However, if you’re looking for a more visually engaging or fast-paced documentary, you may want to consider other options.

Very British Problems

If you’re a fan of British humor and culture, then “Very British Problems” is a must-watch. This TV program is a hilarious take on the quirks and idiosyncrasies of British people, with a cast of talented actors and comedians.

Pros

• The humor is spot-on and will have you laughing out loud.
• The show is a great way to learn more about British culture and customs.
• The cast is fantastic, with David Tennant, Julie Walters, and James Corden among the talented actors.

Cons

• Some of the humor may be lost on non-British viewers.
• The show only has one season, so you may be left wanting more.
• The content advisory includes alcohol use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.

We thoroughly enjoyed “Very British Problems” and found ourselves laughing at the absurdity of some of the situations portrayed. The show does an excellent job of poking fun at British culture while also celebrating it. The cast is fantastic, with each actor bringing their unique comedic style to the table.

One thing to keep in mind is that some of the humor may be lost on non-British viewers. The show is very much rooted in British culture and customs, so some of the jokes and references may not make sense to those outside of the UK.

Overall, “Very British Problems” is a fantastic TV program that is well worth watching. It’s funny, insightful, and a great way to learn more about British culture. Just be aware of the content advisory before you start watching.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best British TV programmes, there are a few key features to look out for. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Genre

The first thing to consider is the genre of the programme. British TV offers a wide range of genres, from drama and comedy to crime and thriller. It’s important to choose a genre that you enjoy and are interested in, as this will make the viewing experience more enjoyable.

Cast and Crew

The cast and crew of a TV programme can have a big impact on its success. Look for programmes with talented actors and actresses, as well as experienced writers and directors. This can help ensure that the programme is well-written, well-acted, and engaging.

Production Quality

The production quality of a TV programme can also be an important factor to consider. Look for programmes with high-quality cinematography, sound, and special effects. This can help create an immersive viewing experience and make the programme more enjoyable to watch.

Availability

Finally, it’s important to consider the availability of the programme. Look for programmes that are easily accessible, whether through streaming services, DVDs, or other means. This can help ensure that you can watch the programme at your convenience and without any hassle.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best British TV programmes that are right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which British TV series have stood the test of time?

There are many British TV series that have stood the test of time and continue to be loved by audiences worldwide. Some of the most popular ones include Doctor Who, Downton Abbey, Fawlty Towers, and Monty Python’s Flying Circus.

What are some iconic British TV shows known globally?

British TV shows have a huge global following, and there are many iconic shows that are known worldwide. Some of the most popular ones include Sherlock, The Crown, Black Mirror, Peaky Blinders, and Luther.

Which British series are currently trending on Netflix?

Netflix has a wide range of British TV shows that are currently trending. Some of the most popular ones include The Crown, Sex Education, Peaky Blinders, Black Mirror, and The Witcher.

What are the most watched TV shows in the UK at the moment?

The most watched TV shows in the UK at the moment include Line of Duty, The Great British Bake Off, Strictly Come Dancing, and I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!.

Which British TV series are highly rated internationally?

There are many British TV series that are highly rated internationally. Some of the most popular ones include Doctor Who, Sherlock, Downton Abbey, Luther, and Peaky Blinders.

What are the top-rated British TV series on IMDB?

IMDB is a popular platform for rating TV shows and movies. Some of the top-rated British TV series on IMDB include Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, The Wire, Friends, and The Sopranos.